S4 Ep 42: The History Of Gyros With Guest Colin Rourke
In this episode of Sprung On Food, we unravel the delicious history of the gyro with our special guest, comedian Colin Rourke.
Colin's Nostalgic Love for Gyros
Our conversation began with Colin sharing his personal connection to gyros, which dates back to his middle school days. Growing up in Chicago, Colin recalls visiting a local spot, Mickey’s, with his mom for a gyro platter that left a lasting impression. This meal quickly became a cherished ritual for them. Since then, gyros have been his goto comfort food that brings back fond family memories, even as he explores new food in New York City.
The Storied History of the Gyro
To truly appreciate any food, one must explore its history. Gyros, often mispronounced, have deep roots tracing back to ancient influences, notably from the Ottoman Empire and Greece. The name "gyro" comes from the Greek word "gyros," meaning "turn" or "revolution," a nod to the vertical rotisserie cooking style that crisps the exterior while keeping the meat tender. This technique evolved over time, with strong ties to the Ottoman invention of rotating meat on a spit, leading to the creation of the modern Greek gyro in the 20th century.
From Ancient Kitchens to American Streets
The modern gyro, historically made with pork or chicken, hit the streets of Athens with simple yet savory ingredients like red onion, tomato, and tzatziki. By the 1960s and 70s, Greek immigrants brought the gyro to American shores, introducing it to local palates. Chicago played a pivotal role in the gyro's American evolution, thanks to innovators like Kronos Foods and Olympia Foods, who industrialized gyro production, making this once niche street food a mass-market staple.
Gyros in Pop Culture and Personal Tips
The fascinating journey of gyros extends into pop culture with moments like a feature in the SNL sketch "De Juice Gyros" and records like Joey Chestnut’s "gyro hero" title for his impressive eating feats. Colin and I also delved into the fun but messy experience of eating gyros in public, a challenge to embrace wholeheartedly.
Gyros Today: A Widespread Favorite
Today, gyros can be found everywhere, from New York’s bustling streets to authentic spots like Parthenon Gyros in Madison, Wisconsin. Yet, debates around what makes an "authentic" gyro endure, as foodies argue over the specifics of the dish’s ingredients and preparation.
In the end, our exploration of gyros exemplifies how this beloved dish adapts and evolves with time, reflecting cultural shifts and its journey through history. Whether you’re a traditionalist or open to new iterations, one thing remains constant: the irresistible allure of a well-made gyro.
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